IBCLC shares why Ardo’s KindestCup is a game-changer for breastfeeding mums

The little everyday aids for collecting precious breast milk

As an IBCLC lactation consultant with years of practical experience, I have accompanied countless mothers who have used various aids to collect and feed breast milk.

In this article, I would like to compare the new kindestCup with existing silicone breast pumps and milk collection cups.

My observations and feedback from mums form the basis for this comparison.

Ardo kindestCup: A closer look at the newcomer

The kindestCup is an innovative silicone milk collection cup that holds itself to the breast by means of a small vacuum.

The vacuum is very low and only serves to hold it securely to the breast, but it does not actively suck out any milk.

This product is very versatile: it can be used for both active and passive collection of breast milk and can also be used for feeding the milk.

Advantages of the kindestCup

⦁ Independent hold: The vacuum ensures that the kindestCup stays securely on the breast without the mother having to hold it in place. This makes breastfeeding much easier and gives the mother more freedom of movement.
⦁ No influence on the amount of milk: The vacuum of the kindestCup is very gentle and only collects the milk that the body produces naturally. This means that no possible overproduction is encouraged and only the baby’s demand determines the amount of milk.
⦁ Comfort and fit: The soft silicone material adapts well to the breast and ensures a high level of comfort. The adaptability of the material prevents pressure marks and discomfort. Thanks to the wide opening, the kindestCup can be used regardless of the mother’s breast size.
Multifunctionality: The kindestCup can be used to collect milk while breastfeeding and expressing by hand as well as for feeding the baby, making it an extremely practical everyday tool.

Disadvantages of the kindestCup

⦁ Learning curve: As the kindestCup is a new product, creating a vacuum may be unfamiliar to some mums. Good instructions and some practice are helpful to get used to the application and to create the vacuum correctly.

Silicone breast pumps: Proven, but not perfect

Silicone breast pumps have been on the market for several years and offer an inexpensive and easy way to express breast milk.

Despite their popularity, some mothers report various disadvantages.

Disadvantages of silicone breast pumps

⦁ Risk of overproduction: Particularly in the early stages of milk production, the use of silicone breast pumps can lead to overproduction and thus to mastitis. This is a common problem that requires careful supervision and guidance from experienced lactation consultants.
⦁ Easy detachment: Due to their design, these pumps can easily slip off the breast, especially if the mother or baby moves. This not only leads to frustration, but also to possible milk loss.
⦁ Problems with size: The universal size of most silicone breast pumps does not always fit every breast perfectly, which can lead to an uncomfortable feeling.
⦁ No freedom of movement: Mothers have to hold the pump while using it or use a strap, which restricts their freedom of movement.

Milk collection cups: Practical, but with limitations

Milk collection cups are another tool that mums often use to collect leaking milk. They are placed directly in the bra and collect the milk that leaks out during breastfeeding or between nursing sessions.

Disadvantages of milk collection cups

⦁ Problems with size and pressure marks: Depending on the size and shape of the breast, the cups do not always fit well in every bra, which can lead to pressure marks and discomfort. There is also a risk that the small openings for the nipple can block the milk ducts.
⦁ Leaks when moving: When moving, especially when bending down, the cups can slip and milk can spill through the opening.
⦁ Skin irritation: The cups can cause skin irritation or minor injuries due to friction, especially on sensitive skin. The moist environment can also favour skin irritation or infections if worn for very long periods.

General cleaning issues

What both products, silicone breast pumps and milk collection trays, have in common is that they might be difficult to clean, depending on their design.

Milk residue can remain in the corners and grooves, which can affect hygiene. Regular and thorough cleaning is essential to ensure the safety and health of mother and child. As the kindestCup consists of only one part and has a very large opening, cleaning is very easy.

Conclusion

In my practice, I have found that each product has its individual advantages and disadvantages.

The kindestCup offers an innovative and convenient solution for collecting and feeding breast milk, while silicone breast pumps and milk collection bowls are established but not perfect aids.

The kindestCup convinced me of its suitability for everyday use, particularly with regard to its multifunctionality.

Not everything always runs smoothly in the life of a young mother, so little tools like this can make life a lot easier.

Find out more about kindestCup at kindestcup.com